Living in a small space doesn’t mean you can’t have a lush, vibrant garden.
Vertical gardening is a fantastic way to maximize space and add greenery and calm to any area.
Here are eleven epic vertical garden ideas to help you unlock your vertical space.
The Benefits of Vertical Gardening
Vertical gardening is perfect for small spaces, urban environments, or anyone looking to add an extra layer of beauty to their garden. It helps maximize space, improve air quality, and create a stunning visual effect.
1. Living Walls
Living walls, also known as green walls, are a striking way to add greenery to your space. They can be created using modular panels or fabric pockets filled with plants. I installed a living wall on my patio, transforming the space into a lush oasis of calm.
2. Hanging Planters
Hanging plants are a simple and effective way to add vertical interest.
Use macramé hangers, wall-mounted hooks, or even re-purpose old items like colanders. Why not hang a series of colourful pots from a balcony railing, to create a stunning cascade effect.
3. Pallet Gardens
Upcycle old pallets into vertical planters. Simply fill the gaps with soil and plant herbs, flowers, or succulents. Pressed for space? Why not try building a pallet garden with herbs outside your kitchen door, making it easy to grab fresh leaves while cooking.
4. Trellises, Pergolas & Arbours
Grow climbing plants like jasmine, roses, or runner beans on trellises, pergolas and arbours. These structures not only support the plants but also add height and structure to your garden. My own pergola is covered in wisteria which looks and smells divine in summer…
5. Pocket Edibles
Pocket gardens use fabric or felt pockets attached to a wall or frame. They’re perfect for small plants like herbs, lettuce, or strawberries. Try installing a pocket garden on your kitchen wall to create a green, edible living, artwork!
6. Vertical Planter Boxes
Stack planter boxes vertically to create a tiered effect. These can be built or bought and are ideal for growing a variety of plants. My vertical planter boxes are filled with a mix of flowers and vegetables, providing both beauty and bounty.
7. Gutter Gardens
Repurpose old gutters into horizontal planters and mount them on a wall or fence. They’re perfect for shallow-rooted plants like herbs and strawberries. If you have a bare wall with good light on a garden shed, why not knock one up; it’s a great use of space!
8. Wall-Mounted Shelves
Install shelves on a wall and fill them with pots of your favourite plants. This is a versatile and stylish way to display your garden. I once had a series of rustic wooden shelves on my balcony, filled with an assortment of succulents and herbs.
9. Vertical Herb Gardens
Create a vertical herb garden by using a ladder shelf, hanging planters, or pocket planters. It’s a practical and beautiful way to grow your culinary herbs. My vertical herb garden right outside the kitchen is a daily delight for fresh cooking ingredients.
10. DIY Vertical Planters
Get creative with DIY vertical planters. Use old picture frames, wooden crates, or PVC pipes to create unique plant displays. Make a vertical planter out of a wooden crate and some old jars to create a unique focal point in your garden.
11. Succulent Frames
Create stunning succulent frames by planting succulents in shallow boxes or picture frames filled with soil. They’re low-maintenance and add a modern touch to any space. My succulent frame is a conversation starter at every garden party.
Conclusion
Vertical gardening offers endless possibilities for adding greenery to any space. Whether you’re working with a small balcony, a bare fence or wall, or a postage stamp patio, these ideas could help you create an eye-catching vertical garden. Embrace the vertical space and enjoy the beauty and benefits of a lush, green garden, no matter the size.
Joel Davey Garden Design | The Place for High Quality Garden Design in Warwickshire 